A-Z Health Topics

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

(PMR)

Definition

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder. It results in muscle pain and stiffness in the body. The effects are most common in the shoulders, arms, hips, and thighs. About 15% of people with PMR will also develop
giant cell arteritis
(GCA).
GCA is an inflammation of the lining of the arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.

Causes

The exact cause is not known. Inflammatory conditions may be associated with a problem with the immune system. Certain viruses may be responsible for PMR. Genetic factors may also play a role.

Risk Factors

PMR is most common in Caucasian women, aged 65 years and older.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Muscle pain and/or stiffness in the hip, shoulder, or neck areas

Stiffness usually occurs in the morning or after long rests and may ease throughout the day

Fever

Unexplained weight loss

Fatigue

Mood changes

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. PMR will be suspected if symptoms are there for more than 2-4 weeks.

Treatment

Symptoms of PMR may disappear without treatment within several months to years, but treatment leads to dramatic improvement. Relief may occur within 24-48 hours.

Treatment may include:

Corticosteroids—may be used for up to 2 years at low doses

Supplements, such as
calcium
or
vitamin D and biphosphonates—to prevent bone loss due to steroid treatment

Physical therapy to help with strength, flexibility, and mobility

Anti-inflammatory medications

Prevention

There are current guidelines to prevent PMR.

RESOURCES

American College of Rheumatology
http://www.rheumatology.org

Arthritis Foundation
http://www.arthritis.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

The Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca

References

Polymyalgia rheumatica. American College of Rheumatology website. Available at:
http://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Polymyalgia-Rheumatica. Updated June 2015. Accessed May 11, 2016.

Questions and answers about polymyalgia rheumatical and giant cell arteritis.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website.
Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Polymyalgia/default.asp. Updated April 2015. Accessed May 11, 2016.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.